Notes / Commercial Description:
Traditionally untraditional, Black IPAs—also known as Cascadian Dark Ales or American Black Ales—originated here in Vermont under the auspices of American craft brewing pioneer Greg Noonan. This rich, delicious brew fuses pronounced hop aromas and darkly roasted malts in a style born in the Green Mountains.

Interesting. Dark amber black when held to light, tan head about 1.5 inches poured from a 12 oz. bottle into a pub glass. Moderate lacing on glass. Herbal pine and smoked nutty nose. Smoky nutty malt flavor dominates hoppy bitterness creating an interesting and surprising contrast. Not unpleasant but to me, it looks and smells better than it tastes. Mouthfeel is muddled, somewhat soft for an IPA but the bite seems to come from the carbonation and smokiness of the dark roast malt than from the hop bitters.

Great beer! Started this snowy night with a taste of this thick, dark IPA. Sweet, but not too sweet. Smooth, but just enough flavor. Nice aroma. Looks good enough to drink poured in a clear pint glass. Overall, I would easily recommend this beer to others and drink it again.

Poured from bottle dated 12/09/14 into a modified tulip glass.
A - Deep dark, crisp carbonation capped with mocha colored foamy goodness.
Laced glass the entire time.
S - That roast malt and hops dance a beautiful dance. Hints of cocoa and chocolate are
blended with citrus notes.
T - Complimentary flavors well blended, with oily hops leading and the malt base floating them the entire way. Cocoa notes combine with resin to keep it interesting.
F - Slick, and firm in the palate with some lingering, the carbonation is well done.
Exits with a fine hop notes.
O - A fine treat from Otter Creek. Quite enjoyable.
Cheers